SUPPLEMENT TO THE LABORATORY QUALITY

MANAGEMENT SYSTEM TRAINING TOOLKIT, Module 16 Documents and records

QUALITY MANUAL
Version 2013
Name of the laboratory
Address
Director name
Contact details

Written by

Reviewed by

Authorized by

Date:

Date:

Date:

Quality
Manual

Preface

This quality manual template provides guidance for public health and clinical
laboratories on writing policies and procedures that support a quality
management system. It is based on both ISO 15189 Standard for Medical
laboratories - Medical laboratories Particular requirements for quality and
competence - and CLSI GP26-A4 documents - Quality Management System: A
Model for Laboratory Services; Approved guideline 4th edition - , and provides
information and examples to assist with writing a quality manual that addresses
all quality system essentials (QSE) that are critical for quality management. The
template is organized following the framework developed by CLSI and the 12
Quality System Essentials, as described in greater detail in the Laboratory
Quality Management System (LQMS) Training Toolkit 1. Furthermore, additional
resources (e.g. glossary) can also be found in the LQMS Training Toolkit and
Handbook.
A quality manual is required for implementing a quality management system.
Such a system aims primarily at achieving customer satisfaction by meeting
customer requirements through application of the system, continuous
improvement of the system, and prevention of the occurrence of
nonconformities.
This quality manual template is based on internationally-accepted standards and
focuses on good quality principles and best practices.

Information noted in red in this template is provided as example, by no means

complete, or as instruction. The individual laboratories are required to customize
the text of the template to the local situation. The watermark template is to be
removed before finalization.
The resulting quality manual will need to be reviewed annually and revised when
necessary, and therefore needs a version number and has to be verified and
authorized before using. The quality manual will be presented to all staff, and
accessible while properly stored and protected from damaging.
This document was developed with Microsoft Word 2010.

http://www.who.int/ihr/training/laboratory_quality/en/

Quality
Manual

i. Abbreviations and acronyms

BSL

Biosafety Level

CDC

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, USA

CLSI

Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute, Wayne,

Pennsylvania, USA

EQA

External Quality Assessment

ISO

International Organization for Standardization

LIS

Laboratory Information System

LQMS

Laboratory Quality Management System

QC

Quality Control

QM

Quality Manual

QMS

Quality Management System

QSE

Quality System Essential

SOP(s)

Standard Operating Procedure(s)

WHO

World Health Organization

Quality
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ii. Table of Contents

Preface.........................................................................................................2
i. Abbreviations and acronyms.....................................................................3
ii. Table of Contents.....................................................................................4
1. Introduction to the Quality Manual..........................................................6
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5

Overview of the organization................................................................................................... 6

Mission statement................................................................................................................... 6
Vision statement..................................................................................................................... 6
Objectives............................................................................................................................... 6
Scope...................................................................................................................................... 6

2. Quality Policy...........................................................................................7
3. QSE: Organization....................................................................................8
3.1
3.2
3.3
3.4
3.5
3.6

Organization policy.................................................................................................................. 8
Conflict of interest................................................................................................................... 8
Organization chart................................................................................................................... 8
Internal communication........................................................................................................... 8
Personnel responsibilities........................................................................................................ 9
Supporting documents.......................................................................................................... 10

4. QSE: Facilities and Safety......................................................................11

4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
4.6

Policy..................................................................................................................................... 11
Facilities................................................................................................................................ 11
Security................................................................................................................................. 11
Working environment............................................................................................................ 11
Waste disposal...................................................................................................................... 11
Supporting documents.......................................................................................................... 12

5. QSE: Equipment.....................................................................................13
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
5.5
5.6
5.7
5.8

Policy..................................................................................................................................... 13
Selection of equipment.......................................................................................................... 13
Installation and Acceptance Criteria...................................................................................... 13
Equipment Inventory and master file..................................................................................... 13
Validation.............................................................................................................................. 13
Preventive maintenance and repair....................................................................................... 14
Decommissioning.................................................................................................................. 14
Supporting documents.......................................................................................................... 14

6. QSE: Purchasing and Inventory..............................................................16

6.1 Policy..................................................................................................................................... 16
6.2 Reagents and consumables management............................................................................. 16
6.3 Selection and evaluation of providers.................................................................................... 16
6.4 Procurement.......................................................................................................................... 17
6.4.1 Equipment procurement................................................................................................. 17
6.4.2 Reagents, consumables and materials........................................................................... 17
6.5 Stock management and inventory......................................................................................... 17
6.6 Referral laboratories / subcontracting.................................................................................... 17
6.7 Supporting documents.......................................................................................................... 18

7. QSE: Process Management....................................................................19

7.1 Policy..................................................................................................................................... 19
7.2 Sample management............................................................................................................ 19
7.2.1 Specimen collection and transport................................................................................. 19
7.2.2 Specimen/sample receiving............................................................................................ 20
7.2.3. Specimen/sample handling, preparation and storage....................................................20
7.3 Method validation.................................................................................................................. 20
7.4 List of examinations.............................................................................................................. 20
7.5 Restrictive list (if duty 24h/24).............................................................................................. 20
7.6 Quality Control...................................................................................................................... 20
7.7 Reporting............................................................................................................................... 21
7.8 Sample retention and disposal.............................................................................................. 21
7.9 Supporting documents.......................................................................................................... 21

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8. QSE: Assessments.................................................................................23
8.1 Policy..................................................................................................................................... 23
8.2 Internal assessments............................................................................................................. 23
8.2.1 Internal Audits................................................................................................................ 23
8.2.2 Review and follow up of corrective actions..................................................................... 23
8.2.3 Quality indicators........................................................................................................... 23
8.2.4 Staff suggestions............................................................................................................ 23
8.2.5 Review of requests, methods and sampling requirements..............................................24
8.3 External assessments............................................................................................................ 24
8.3.1 External Quality Assessment/ Proficiency testing...........................................................24
8.3.2 Customer feedback........................................................................................................ 24
8.3.3 External audits............................................................................................................... 24
8.4 Supporting documents.......................................................................................................... 24

9. QSE: Personnel.......................................................................................25
9.1 Policy..................................................................................................................................... 25
9.2 Recruitment........................................................................................................................... 25
9.3 Personnel file / health file...................................................................................................... 25
9.4 Integration and clearance...................................................................................................... 25
9.5 Training................................................................................................................................. 25
9.6 Staff competency.................................................................................................................. 26
9.7 Personnel performance appraisal.......................................................................................... 26
9.8 Continuous education............................................................................................................ 26
9.9 Non-permanent personnel..................................................................................................... 26
9.10 Supporting documents........................................................................................................ 26

10. QSE: Customer Focus...........................................................................27

10.1
10.2
10.3
10.4

Policy................................................................................................................................... 27
Customers satisfaction measurement.................................................................................. 27
Claims management........................................................................................................... 27
Supporting documents........................................................................................................ 27

11. QSE: Nonconforming Event Management............................................28

11.1 Policy................................................................................................................................... 28
11.2 Corrective Actions............................................................................................................... 28
11.3 Supporting documents........................................................................................................ 28

12. QSE: Continual Improvement...............................................................29

12.1
12.2
12.3
12.4
12.5

Policy................................................................................................................................... 29
Quality indicators................................................................................................................ 29
Management review............................................................................................................ 29
Preventive action................................................................................................................. 30
Supporting documents........................................................................................................ 30

13. QSE: Documents and Records..............................................................31

13.1
13.2
13.3
13.4
13.5
13.6

Policy................................................................................................................................... 31
Documentation management.............................................................................................. 31
Documents and records control........................................................................................... 31
Archiving............................................................................................................................. 32
Review of contracts............................................................................................................. 32
Supporting documents........................................................................................................ 32

14. QSE: Information Management............................................................33

14.1
14.2
14.3
14.4

Policy................................................................................................................................... 33
Information system - Security.............................................................................................. 33
Confidentiality..................................................................................................................... 33
Supporting documents........................................................................................................ 33

15. Appendices..........................................................................................34

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1. Introduction to the Quality Manual

1.1 Overview of the organization

As part of the diagnostic services of XXX (if big structure), the Name of the
laboratory provides biochemistry, immunology, microbiology, parasitology,
toxicology, virology, haematology testing and other tests relevant to medicine
and/or disease surveillance to physicians, health care providers, and
epidemiologists for the benefit of the patient and population.
The laboratory has adopted a quality management system for the purpose of
the effective and efficient use of its resources. All employees are committed to
the culture of quality. All staff shares responsibility for identifying
nonconformities or opportunities for improvement, recording these instances
so that corrective or preventive actions can be taken to ensure the laboratory
meets the needs of its customers.
1.2 Mission statement

Include the organization or laboratorys mission statement here (e.g., a brief

description of the laboratorys fundamental purpose for existing).
These are usually defined by the laboratory director or senior administrative
management.
1.3 Vision statement

Include the organization or laboratorys vision statement here (e.g., a

statement of what is possible, the picture of the future laboratory in 5-year
time).
These are usually defined by the laboratory director or senior administrative
management.
1.4 Objectives

The objectives of the laboratory are to produce accurate, reliable and timely
analyses' results, achieve and maintain an effective quality management
system and ensure compliance with relevant statutory and safety
requirements.
These are usually defined by the laboratory director or senior administrative
management with staff participation.
The quality committee, through the quality manager, contributes to the
implementation of the quality management system to achieve the defined
objectives.
1.5 Scope

This quality manual describes the quality management system of the Name of
the laboratory. Its scope is for:

Internal use - to communicate to staff the laboratorys quality policy and

quality objectives, to make the staff familiar with the processes used to
achieve compliance with quality requirements. This should facilitate the
implementation of the quality management system as well as ensure its
maintenance and required updates during altering circumstances. This
should also allow effective communication and control of quality related
activities and a documented base for quality system audits.
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External use - to inform the Name of the laboratorys external partners

about its quality policy as well as its implemented quality management
system and measures of compliance with quality.

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2. Quality Policy
Senior management is dedicated to providing the resources necessary to
maintain the laboratory quality management system and to ensure the
laboratorys participation in the institutional quality plan.
The laboratory is committed to continual improvement, meeting internal
requirements and customer requirements, and providing a basis for the
establishment and review of the quality objectives.
Quality practices are communicated within the organization, understood and
adhered to by all employees.
The laboratory ensures a competent workforce to deliver quality results in a
timely manner according to the chosen internationally or nationally recognized
standard.

Date and Signatures

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3. QSE: Organization
3.1 Organization policy

The laboratory director/manager and/or representative has the authority,

competence and responsibility for the services provided.
Laboratory management ensures the following:
there are no activities that could compromise laboratory performance;
there are appropriate procedures to ensure ethical respect of patient
samples and confidentiality of patient information;
duties and responsibilities of laboratory personnel are defined;
appropriate communication is established within the laboratory;
a quality manager and a biosafety officer are designated.
3.2 Conflict of interest

The Name of the laboratory is not engaged in any activity that might influence its
technical judgment. The laboratory is not committed to any commercial,
financial or other pressure provided by any particular organization that could
influence its technical judgment or affect its competencies and trust.
3.3 Organization chart

If embedded in a big structure (e.g., hospital), the laboratory collaborates with

other departments such as the human resources department, training and
education department, finance department, procurement department, as well as
support services.
The laboratory internal organization consists of a team of XX professionals shown
in the organizational chart below:
Laboratory Director/Manager: Name

Secretary:
Name

Quality manager:
Name
Quality team: Names

Immunology
department

Microbiology
department

Head name

Head name

Biochemistr
y
department

Parasitology
department
Head name

Head name

Technician(s
)

Technician(s
)

Technician(s
)

Technician(s
)

Name(s)

Name(s)

Name(s)

Name(s)

3.4 Internal communication

The management ensures appropriate communication takes place to keep staff

members informed.
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Weekly meetings are held for all personnel in the laboratory. During the
meetings:

activities of the week are reviewed and activities to be performed are

defined
all information on general organization, actions and projects is
communicated.

Minutes (notes) are taken of meeting discussions, followed by a written report.

Add any other type of meeting regularly held in the laboratory.
3.5 Personnel responsibilities

List the positions and their responsibilities. The exact titles of the positions (e.g.
director versus manager; manager versus officer) may vary between
organisations. The title in use should be selected as appropriate to the
environment by the management.
Laboratory director/manager (to be adapted)

designs, approves, implements and maintains the quality management

system;
ensures that the necessary human and material resources, as well as the
necessary information, are available to enable effective operation and
control of the processes of the quality management system;
delegates tasks to qualified personnel;
selects suppliers;
manages contracts;
ensures adequate training;
ensures internal and external communication.

Quality manager (to be adapted)

assesses the facilities, procedures, practices, and training of personnel

involved in the laboratorys activities, in regard to the quality management
system;
reviews the quality plan annually and recommends any revisions needed
to the laboratorys director/manager;
seeks advice from different departments and specialists and may require
assistance from independent experts;
establishes an internal audit program and informs the laboratory
director/manager of audit outcomes;
ensures that the quality management system is managed and maintained;
establishes and monitors all processes and procedures for the quality
management system;
resolves nonconformities;
ensures that action is taken in order to obtain continuous improvement of
processes/activities;
ensures all staff has up-to-date QMS training.

Quality committee (to be adapted)

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if existing, the quality committee assists the quality manager.

Supervisor/authorized personnel (to be adapted)

plans and co-ordinates the work schedule;

ensures stock management/material management;
ensures activities/processes included in the scope of the quality
management system are identified and performed in compliance with this
manual;
applies the necessary techniques and criteria in order to verify that
established processes/activities and their implemented controls are
effective;
evaluates and identifies new products.

Technologist/Head Technician (to be adapted)

manages, protects, and preserves stock;

manages and maintains equipment;
provides technical advice on laboratory quality procedures to personnel;
reports to the supervisor any significant problems of which he/she
becomes aware in daily practice.

Technician (to be adapted)

performs the tests;

controls and maintains equipment;
reports to the technologist/head technician any significant problems of
which he/she becomes aware in daily practice;
checks performance of internal quality controls to validate the tests.

Other positions, such as biosafety officer, document manager or

information manager can be described as needed.
3.6 Supporting documents

The laboratory should develop its own complete list of supporting documents.
The table below suggests processes, procedures and forms/logs. Some but not all
documents are provided as examples in appendices and referred to as Ap XXX.
Processes

ID Code

Communication
Conflict of interest
Review of the general organization
Procedures
Meetings management

Ap 1

Internal communication
Ethics and conflict of interest

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Organization review
Forms/Logs
Meeting minutes
Conflict of interest and ethics form

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4. QSE: Facilities and Safety

4.1 Policy

The laboratory is provided with sufficient space and reliable infrastructure to

perform its work, to ensure the quality, safety and efficacy of the services
provided, and to meet national safety regulations.
The laboratory design provides an efficient and safe environment for the
laboratory staff, other health care personnel, patients, and the community.
Personnel are trained in the basics of safety and biorisk management issues.
4.2 Facilities

The laboratory has several rooms, each designated for specific uses; for example,
offices, storage facilities, washrooms, patient collection area, and laboratory
working areas.
Include a labelled floor plan of the laboratory.
4.3 Security

The laboratory reception is clearly marked with the appropriate signage. Access
to all facilities other than reception is restricted to authorized personnel. Access
is regulated by an access card (magnetic badge or code).
Access to the BSL3 (Biosafety Level 3) requires:
a general training on biosafety concerning BSL3 level work
a tutorial by the person in charge of the BSL3
a specific clearance
a medical examination report communicating necessary vaccination.
Access to the laboratory outside the opening hours is limited to laboratory
management, technical staff and to personnel on duty call.
A 24-hour security service is in effect.
The facilities and zones at risk are linked to an alarm system at the central post
of security.
4.4 Working environment

All manipulation presenting a risk of contamination (for the operator,

environment and/or sample) is isolated from other activities.
Working areas are kept clean, dust free and are well maintained.
A complete and thorough description of safety rules is available and all personnel
are trained in safety and biorisk management issues when working with
chemicals and samples. Further details can be found in the safety manual.
4.5 Waste disposal

Waste (chemical, biological and other) is segregated and disposed according to

national regulations on waste disposal. People in charge of the waste disposal are
trained to handle biohazardous waste.
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4.6 Supporting documents

The laboratory should develop its own complete list of supporting documents.
The table below suggests processes, procedures and forms/logs. Some but not all
documents are provided as examples in appendices and referred to as Ap XXX.
Processes

ID Code

Facility maintenance
Security
Safe working environment
Waste disposal
Procedures
Safety manual (all specific safety procedures including biosafety)
Facility maintenance
Safe manipulation

Ap 2

Security
Waste disposal
Forms/Logs
Incident report form
Visitors log
Housekeeping log

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5. QSE: Equipment
5.1 Policy

The management of the laboratory ensures that equipment is properly selected,

installed, validated, maintained and disposed of according to established
procedures and manufacturer's instructions to meet the needs of the laboratory
to perform quality diagnostic testing.
5.2 Selection of equipment

This section is developed in chapter 6 Purchasing and Inventory.

5.3 Installation and acceptance Criteria

New instruments and equipment are installed, calibrated and documented by the
vendor who assures satisfactory performance.
The vendor or laboratory ensures space, ventilation, humidity and electricity
meet specifications for satisfactory performance.
The vendor or laboratory provides documentation that each instrument meets all
the required criteria for its use in the laboratory.
5.4 Equipment Inventory and master file

All equipment is uniquely identified (serial number or unique number developed

by the laboratory).
An inventory and master file is maintained for each piece of equipment.
The inventory represents the list of all equipment, and persons in charge of the
different pieces of equipment. Updating of this inventory is ensured by the
persons in charge of the equipment and the department of service and repair.
The same for the attribution of the inventory number of each piece of equipment.
The following information is in the master file:
name of the equipment
brand (manufacturer)
inventory number
serial number
model and year
location
cost
date of purchase
date of first use
type of maintenance (contract with an external company, in house, etc.)
regular preventive maintenance to be performed, and frequency to
perform these activities
calibration activities
record of preventive maintenance activities
record of repairs
parts of the equipment that have been changed or repaired.
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5.5 Validation

The laboratory validates each new piece of equipment.

The validation process depends on the type of equipment and its use in the
laboratory. Reproducibility and accuracy tests are performed, documented,
reviewed and approved before the instrument is used in the testing environment.
All equipment used for specific testing is the responsibility of staff in charge of
that discipline.
The responsible staff conducts or delegates the required calibrations of the
equipment and maintains records of all interventions on the equipment.
Use and maintenance of each equipment is based on the manufacturer's
instructions.
A standard operating procedure (SOP) on the use, maintenance and safety risks
of the equipment is accessible at the bench.
The operating manual of each piece of the equipment is available in the language
spoken and understood by the laboratory staff.
5.6 Preventive maintenance and repair

Preventive maintenance is recorded in the instrument daily logbook.

Maintenance contracts and warranty service are documented and maintained by
the department of service.
Defective or malfunctioning equipment is identified with label alerting that it is
not in use.
Equipment requiring service due to a malfunction is decontaminated following
manufacturers requirements.
Serviced or repaired equipment is
manufacturers performance criteria.

calibrated

to

ensure

it

meets

the

5.7 Decommissioning

Obsolete equipment is decontaminated and removed from the laboratory.

5.8 Supporting documents

The laboratory should develop its own complete list of supporting documents.
The table below suggests processes, procedures and forms/logs. Some but not all
documents are provided as examples in appendices and referred to as Ap XXX.
Processes

ID Code

Selection and acquisition of equipment (see chapter 6 Purchasing and

Inventory)
Equipment installation

Ap 3

Equipment repair

Ap 4

Decommissioning

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Equipment identification
Procedures
Equipment selection (see chapter 6 Purchasing and Inventory)
Equipment validation
Equipment identification
Decontamination of laboratory equipment

Ap 5

Equipment decommission

Ap 6

Equipment SOPs (calibration, operation and maintenance of each piece

of equipment)
Forms/Logs
Laboratory equipment disposal form

Ap 6

Checklist for decontamination

Ap 5

Service certification

Ap 5

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6. QSE: Purchasing and Inventory

6.1 Policy

The Name of the laboratory ensures an uninterrupted supply of consumables

and/or services are available to perform all quality laboratory functions.
The laboratory maintains a list of vendors that meet the requirements for the
product or service to be purchased. The laboratory strives to purchase high
quality reagents at a reasonable cost and without bias.
The laboratory has a documented procedure for ordering, receiving,
documenting, evaluating and storing all consumables supplies.
The laboratory has an inventory management system.
The laboratory selects its referral laboratories and is responsible for all tests
performed by these laboratories.
6.2 Reagents and consumables management

The laboratory ensures that the procedures for the purchase, receipt and storage
of all reagents guarantee that the quality of testing is not compromised.
All new lots of reagents are crosschecked and documented with previous lots to
ensure reproducibility. Environmental conditions for the storage of all reagents
and consumables are monitored and documented.
The laboratory maintains a record of all laboratory supplies, including reagents
and consumables. This information includes:
identity of the reagent or consumable;
manufacturers name;
contact information for the supplier or the manufacturer;
date of receiving and date of entering into service;
condition when received (e.g. acceptable or damaged);
manufacturers instructions;
records that confirmed the reagent's or consumables initial acceptance for
use;
performance records that confirm the reagents or consumables ongoing
acceptance for use.
All reagents that are prepared within the laboratory, such as media, must contain
all the above information as well as the name of the person who prepared it and
the date of preparation.
6.3 Selection and evaluation of providers

The laboratory evaluates the providers for the reagents, consumables and
equipment. The evaluation should be conducted against defined criteria which
may include:
value for money
post-delivery support
availability
in-country distribution
registration of the provider.
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All the evaluations are recorded and a list of retained providers is established.
6.4 Procurement
6.4.1 Equipment procurement

The laboratory ensures that when purchasing, leasing or acquiring new

equipment, it conforms to the established requirements (for example testing
capacities). See chapter 5 Equipment.
6.4.2 Reagents, consumables and materials
Purchasing orders

The orders for purchase of supplies (reagents, consumables and materials) are
requested using a specific form and submitted to the provision/purchasing
department.
Receipt of orders

The laboratory confirms receipt of the supplies with the assistance of the
financial department/ provision department.
The date of receipt is recorded.
The person in the laboratory taking receipt of the supplies crosschecks the
information indicated on the package and accompanying documents with the
data of the order.
6.5 Stock management and inventory

The laboratory has a stock management system to ensure consumables are

stored under correct environmental conditions and are used prior to their
expiration dates.
A regular inventory is performed.
6.6 Referral laboratories / subcontracting

The laboratory is responsible for all tests performed by another laboratory on

patient samples that are referred. The laboratory should select referral
laboratories according to pre-defined criteria such as competency to perform the
requested tests.
It will be the quality committees responsibility to designate the laboratories
and/or companies with whom they will subcontract tests or calibration. These will
be listed and kept in a folder with all documents referring to the subcontractors.
Subcontracting of samples may occur under any of the following circumstances:
test not performed routinely by the laboratory
instrument breakdown or reagents not available
workload restrictions
client requested turnaround time cannot be met.
Where a laboratory subcontracts any part of the calibration of equipment, this
work is contracted with a company complying with the requirements of this
quality manual.
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The laboratory ensures and can demonstrate that its subcontractor is competent
to perform the activities in question.

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6.7 Supporting documents

The laboratory should develop its own complete list of supporting documents.
The table below suggests processes, procedures and forms/logs. Some but not all
documents are provided as examples in appendices and referred to as Ap XXX.
Processes

ID Code

Selection and acquisition of equipment, reagents, consumables and

service providers (see chapter 5 Equipment)
Receipt of supplies
Stock and inventory management
Procedures
Selection
Purchasing
Receipt
Stock management
Inventory management
Forms/Logs
List of providers
List of referral laboratories
Stock log
Inventory log

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7. QSE: Process Management

7.1 Policy

The laboratory has processes for each phase of the sample processing: preexamination, examination and post-examination phases, to ensure accurate and
reliable testing.
The laboratory has quality control measures to monitor the examination phase of
testing (qualitative, quantitative and semi-quantitative).
Processes following the path of workflow:

7.2 Sample management

7.2.1 Specimen collection and transport

The laboratory provides written instructions for specimen collection and

transport.
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The laboratory provides specimen containers.

Specimen transport follows national or international transport guidelines or
regulations.
7.2.2 Specimen/sample receiving

The laboratory establishes written specimen/sample acceptance and rejection

criteria for each test offered and provides this information to its customers, as
applicable. All specimens/samples are inspected according to these
acceptance/rejection criteria.
The laboratory rejects specimens/samples that are not suitable for processing.
The requestor is notified of the reason for rejection. If the specimen/sample is
critical and cannot be rejected, the examination is performed and a notation is
made on the report.
In the case of critical specimens/samples, such as one of limited volume, the
laboratory management consults with the requestor to prioritize testing.
A unique registration number is assigned to each specimen/sample to be
analysed.
All patients data is recorded (specify where this is to be recorded).
7.2.3. Specimen/sample handling, preparation and storage

If the specimen needs to be shared for different tests throughout the laboratory
and/or storage purposes, each aliquot (sample) is labelled individually with the
unique registration number.
Samples are stored under proper temperature and safety conditions.
7.3 Method validation

The laboratory is in charge of diagnostics in immunology, bacteriology, virology,

etc.
The methods developed in the laboratory have been through a documented
validation process.
The methods used in the laboratory, that have been published in scientific
reviews or transmitted by national or international reference centers, have been
verified and documented under the laboratory's conditions and adapted when
needed.
The methods and techniques used in the laboratory are described in the standard
operating procedures (SOPs) and associated documents (recording files, bench
files, control files).
7.4 List of examinations

List examinations performed in the laboratory and references to the

corresponding SOPs.
7.5 Restrictive list (if duty 24h/24)

List examinations performed outside opening hours in the laboratory and

references to the corresponding SOPs.
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7.6 Quality Control

The laboratory has a Quality Control (QC) program with written policies and
procedures.
Laboratory technical staff is trained to review and take appropriate action
regarding quality control data.
Internal quality controls are required to ensure the results are valid.
The laboratory quality control program is a monitoring system that:
first, provides immediate information for making the decision about the
acceptability of patient results;
second, provides a method for evaluating data over time to help in making
decisions about the overall performance of the test procedure. These
controls are run on both qualitative (result is positive or negative) and
quantitative (result is a number or value) tests. The resulting data is
recorded in such a way that trends are detectable and, where practicable,
statistical techniques are applied to the reviewing of the results.
Equipment calibration and servicing are monitored.
The examinations results are documented by the technicians on the
corresponding records and recorded in a computer to create a permanent
traceable record.
If QC results are not validated, patients examination results cannot be reported.
When problems occur the laboratory investigates, corrects and repeats sample
testing (see chapter 11 Nonconforming Event Management).
7.7 Reporting

Examination results are reviewed by an authorized personnel and agreed upon

before transmission. If discrepancies occur the authorized personnel initiates
corrective actions.
The authorized personnel contacts the clinician, ward or public health service for
further clinical details, if needed, or to transmit critical results.
Final reports are signed by the authorized personnel and released to the
requestor.
7.8 Sample retention and disposal

Retention of the samples is done according to the laboratorys policy and

respects national regulations.
For disposal of samples, refer to chapter 4 Facilities and Safety.
7.9 Supporting documents

The laboratory should develop its own complete list of supporting documents.
The table below suggests processes, procedures and forms/logs. Some but not all
documents are provided as examples in appendices and referred to as Ap XXX.
Processes

ID Code

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Sample collection, transport, receipt, processing and storage

Method validation
Quality control
Reporting
Procedures
General sampling conditions

Ap 7

Sample labelling

Ap 8

Sample rejection or acceptance

Ap 9

Sample transport

Ap 10

Sample storage and disposal

Analytical SOPs (procedure for each examination/test performed)
Results validation

Ap 11

Critical results reporting

Ap 12

Results reporting
Forms/Logs
Quality control logs
Test result form
List of examinations
Test request form

Ap 8

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8. QSE: Assessments
8.1 Policy

The laboratory performs ongoing quality assessments such as:

periodic review of examination requests, suitable methods and sampling
requirements;
monitoring and evaluation of customer feedback, staff suggestions and
impact of potential failures on examination results and customer
expectations;
monitoring of determined quality indicators, corrective actions undertaken,
and follow-up;
participation in proficiency testing program and review of the
corresponding reports;
participation in internal and external audits.
The laboratory strives to continuously improve the quality of laboratory
performance, the effectiveness of the quality management system and the
reliability of test data.
The laboratory does its best to identify and resolve any nonconformity that may
affect laboratory performance and patient outcome.
8.2 Internal assessments
8.2.1 Internal Audits

During internal audits, information is gathered about:

processes and operating procedures
staff competence and training
equipment
environment
handling of samples
quality control and validation of results
recording and reporting practices.
The findings are compared with the laboratorys internal policies and to the
chosen national or international standard. Any breakdown in the system or
departure from procedures should be identified.
Any gap or nonconformity in performance shows if the policies and procedures
that the laboratory has set require revision or are not being followed.
8.2.2 Review and follow up of corrective actions

All corrective actions undertaken in the laboratory will be reviewed and their
follow up evaluated.
This is described in the chapter 11 Nonconforming Event Management.
8.2.3 Quality indicators

Quality indicators have been determined for XXX period of time to monitor the
quality objectives of the laboratory.
This monitoring is detailed in chapter 12 Continual Improvement.
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8.2.4 Staff suggestions

All staff is encouraged to offer suggestions for improvement of any aspect of the
laboratory. These suggestions are recorded, evaluated and implemented if useful.
Feedback on the suggestions implemented is provided to the staff.
8.2.5 Review of requests, methods and sampling requirements

Requests are systematically reviewed to evaluate the appropriateness of the

methods used for the test required.
The required sample volume and general sampling requirements are also
reviewed every XXX period of time to ensure that samples are collected properly
and in the correct volume needed for the best performance of the test.
8.3 External assessments
8.3.1 External Quality Assessment/ Proficiency testing

Proficiency testing serves as a tool for quality improvement in the laboratory. One
of the major benefits is identifying performance issues and correcting them.
List of the External Quality Assessment (EQA) programmes in which the
laboratory participates in:
List here the EQA programmes in which the laboratory participates in, with the
corresponding tests
8.3.2 Customer feedback

Customer feedback is collected and reviewed on a regular basis. This is described

in the chapter 10 Customer Focus.
8.3.3 External audits

The laboratory participates in an external audit in order to be assessed according

to a chosen national or international standard.
Assessment reports are shared with all staff. Corrective actions are undertaken
accordingly.
8.4 Supporting documents

The laboratory should develop its own complete list of supporting documents.
The table below suggests processes, procedures and forms/logs. Some but not all
documents are provided as examples in appendices and referred to as Ap XXX.
Processes

ID Code

Internal and external audits

Quality indicators
EQA programmes selection
See chapters 10 Customer Focus, 11 Nonconforming Event Management,
and 12 Continual Improvement
Procedures
Internal audit

Ap 13

Preparing for external audit

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Follow up staff suggestion

EQA review
Forms/Logs
Audit checklist
Staff suggestion form
List of EQA programmes

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9. QSE: Personnel
9.1 Policy

The laboratory recognizes that its most important resource is its personnel.
The laboratory management defines staff educational requirements and
competency qualifications necessary for conducting laboratory procedures.
The laboratory management strives to ensure recruitment is unbiased.
The laboratory works with the Human Resources department to ensure education
qualifications and references of job applicants are checked and to ensure legal
contracts/agreements are signed by all parties prior to employment or within a
set period.
The laboratory has a documented procedure for personnel management.
All personnel (temporary, permanent, students, etc.) sign a confidentiality
agreement.
All laboratory personnel respect the laboratory rules concerning health, safety
and security.
The laboratory provides training to its staff according to its needs.
9.2 Recruitment

The laboratory director/manager submits a completed staff recruitment form to

the human resources department (if big structure) that describes the appropriate
education, training, experience, and skills needed for the available position. The
dates of the position are clearly stated. Interviews are arranged by the Human
Resources department.
9.3 Personnel file / health file

An individual administrative file is established for each staff member (temporary,

permanent, trainee, etc.) that contains documents concerning the staff
qualifications (diplomas, CV, training certificate, etc.). Certain documents may be
managed and stored by the Human Resources department (if big structure).
The orientation record, competency assessments, training records, continuing
education, job descriptions are stored in the laboratory in a controlled access
area and updated regularly by the quality manager.
Each new staff member or trainee requires a medical check-up within 30 days of
arrival. The capacity certificate for the given activities is stored in the staff's
individual file along with the list of applicable vaccinations.
9.4 Integration and clearance

Staff orientation of all new employees is to be completed within 30 days of hire.

Safety orientation occurs before an employee is assigned to duties.
All newly hired employees are trained comprehensively on all policies and
procedures in the department that apply to their job description and assignments
(see 9.6 Staff competency, below).
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9.5 Training

The laboratory provides training for all personnel, which includes the quality
management system, assigned work processes and procedures, the laboratory
information system, health and safety, ethics and confidentiality.
The effectiveness of the training program is periodically reviewed.
9.6 Staff competency

Staff competencies cover technical and practical skills and general knowledge.
Competency of each new employee is assessed and verified before permitting to
perform testing and report results.
All employees are assessed for competency on an annual basis.
9.7 Personnel performance appraisal

Each staff is given the opportunity for an annual interview with the laboratory
director/manager.
9.8 Continuous education

A continuing education program is available for the professional development of

staff. Expectations for staff participation are communicated for those education
sessions that are deemed mandatory.
9.9 Non-permanent personnel

Non-permanent personnel such as students, post doctorates and trainees follow

the general laboratory orientation procedures for integration in the laboratory.
9.10 Supporting documents

The laboratory should develop its own complete list of supporting documents.
The table below suggests processes, procedures and forms/logs. Some but not all
documents are provided as examples in appendices and referred to as Ap XXX.
Processes

ID Code

Orientation, training and competency

Recruitment
Continuing education
Performance appraisals
Personnel record maintenance
Procedures
Orientation
Internal training

Ap 15

Competency assessment

Ap 16

Personnel handbook (group of procedures)

Recruitment
Forms/Logs

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Orientation checklist

Ap 14

Competency assessment checklist

Ap 16

Competency assessment logbook

Ap 16

Performance appraisal form

Training logs

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10. QSE: Customer Focus

10.1 Policy

The Name of the laboratory management is dedicated to providing quality and

timely service to all customers, both internal and external. The laboratory
management commits to providing adequate resources to meet customers
requirements and to provide an on-going program for continual improvement.
10.2 Customers satisfaction measurement

Customer surveys are implemented. The objective is to assess the satisfaction of

the main customers: patients, clinicians and public health institutes.
The analysis of survey results leads to implementation of corrective actions
where needed.
10.3 Claims management

Complaints are managed in order to lead to corrective or preventive actions (also

refer to chapter 11 Nonconforming Event Management, and chapter 12 Continual
Improvement).
The objective is to ensure continuous improvement of the quality system by
taking into account the customers' concerns. The claim management will
facilitate tracking and investigating potential non-satisfaction of customers.
10.4 Supporting documents

The laboratory should develop its own complete list of supporting documents.
The table below suggests processes, procedures and forms/logs. Some but not all
documents are provided as examples in appendices and referred to as Ap XXX.
Processes

ID Code

Customer satisfaction
See chapters 11 Nonconforming Event Management, and 12 Continual
Improvement
Procedures
Customer survey

Ap 17

Customer complaint

Ap 18

Forms/Logs
Customer survey form/questionnaire
Customer complaint logbook
Incident report

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11. QSE: Nonconforming Event Management

11.1 Policy

The Name of the laboratory is committed to the identification, documentation,

correction, and prevention of nonconforming events in all aspects of the quality
management system including pre-examination, examination and postexamination processes. Procedures are in place that:
designate the individuals responsible and actions necessary for handling
nonconformities;
ensures that each nonconforming event is documented, recorded, and
reviewed at identified intervals, a root cause analysis performed, and that
corrective action is taken and documented;
define when testing procedures and data reporting will be withheld due to
nonconformities and when, and under what conditions, examination can
resume;
defines the steps taken when examination data resulting from a
nonconforming event has already been released.
11.2 Corrective Actions

All nonconforming events (from occurrence reports, claims, audit reports,

patient/customer complaints, failed proficiency testing, etc.) are recorded,
tracked, trends identified, and root cause analysis performed. The appropriate
corrective actions are taken.
The results of an occurrence assessment are communicated to management and
become part of periodic management review.
The objective is to ensure continuous improvement of the quality system.
11.3 Supporting documents

The laboratory should develop its own complete list of supporting documents.
The table below suggests processes, procedures and forms/logs. Some but not all
documents are provided as examples in appendices and referred to as Ap XXX.
Processes

ID Code

Documentation, review of nonconforming events and corrective actions

Nonconforming event resolution
See chapters 7 Process Management, and 10 Customer Focus
Procedures
Handling nonconformities
Nonconforming event management

Ap 19

Corrective actions
Forms/Logs
Incident report
Corrective actions

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12. QSE: Continual Improvement

12.1 Policy

The laboratory continuously improves the effectiveness of its quality

management system and its processes, as stated in its quality policy and quality
objectives.
A management review is performed annually to evaluate the laboratorys quality
management system, evaluation activities, corrective actions and preventive
actions.
The laboratory develops an action plan according to improvement needs every
XXX period of time and monitors the effectiveness of the actions undertaken.
12.2 Quality indicators

The laboratory establishes quality indicators to monitor and evaluate

performance of its processes every XXX period of time.
List here the quality indicators.
For example:
the traceability of the sample from the reception to the storage after
testing;
the turnaround time from reception of the sample to the hand-out of the
report;
the reliability of the competence of the technical staff (average of test
competency assessments for determined tests).
These indicators are regularly monitored as for their concordance with the
defined objectives and the activities established in the laboratory. These
indicators are presented during the annual management review.
12.3 Management review

The annual management review ensures that the organization and the activities
of the laboratory remain appropriate and efficient. Therefore, it allows the
evaluation and continuous improvement of the efficiency of the quality system of
the laboratory.
The elements reviewed are related to the quality system management.
Elements of entry of the management review:
quality objectives of the past year
quality indicators
occurrences and nonconforming events recorded
customer complaints reports
customer satisfaction survey reports
internal audit reports
proficiency testing reports
corrective/preventive actions and follow up
changes in work load or type of work
all pertinent factors: resources, future activities, etc.
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Elements of output of the management review:

actions for improvement
definition of the quality objectives for the next year
establishment of new quality indicators in concordance with the new
quality objectives
improvement of the quality management system.
12.4 Preventive action

The laboratory reviews the data and implements preventive actions allowing the
laboratory to anticipate eventual nonconforming events in its activities. A follow
up of the actions implemented for improvement is ensured in the same way as
described in chapter 11 Nonconforming Event Management.
12.5 Supporting documents

The laboratory should develop its own complete list of supporting documents.
The table below suggests processes, procedures and forms/logs. Some but not all
documents are provided as examples in appendices and referred to as Ap XXX.
Processes

ID Code

Continual review
Quality indicators
Management review
See chapters 8 Assessments, and 11 Nonconforming Event Management
Procedures
Quality indicators (including management and use)
Management review
Evaluation activities (see chapter 8 Assessments)
Forms/Logs
Review logs
Preventive actions

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13. QSE: Documents and Records

13.1 Policy

The laboratory ensures that documents and records are managed from creation
and receipt to archival and destruction, according to national laws, local
regulations and international standards.
13.2 Documentation management

The four levels of documentation are represented in the pyramid below.

The quality manager reviews and approves all requests for amendments to
existing documents and the development of new procedures, processes, and
policies.
Staff is not permitted to make temporary amendments to documentation without
the prior consent of the quality manager.
When new or modified policies, processes and procedures are instituted, staff
requires retraining.
The quality manual is reviewed periodically (establish time frame). All laboratory
procedures are reviewed on an annual basis. The responsibility for the annual
review lies with the document manager or quality manager.
The document manager or quality manager is responsible for the distribution of
new documents, retrieval of old documents and maintenance of records of
amendments.
13.3 Documents and records control

All documents are uniquely identified. Date of issue, revision version, total
number of pages and authorizing signatories are included in the document.
Documents are signed as a paper copy or authorized electronically.
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A document control log is maintained identifying the current valid versions and
their distribution.
A secure master file is maintained of all documents to prevent unauthorized
access, loss or damage.
13.4 Archiving

The document manager or quality manager is responsible for the proper

archiving of documents and records.
The laboratory respects the national regulations or legislations concerning the
retention time of all records.
A copy of an obsolete document is kept to provide a means for review if the
situation arises.
13.5 Review of contracts

Refer to section 6.6

13.6 Supporting documents

The laboratory should develop its own complete list of supporting documents.
The table below suggests processes, procedures and forms/logs. Some but not all
documents are provided as examples in appendices and referred to as Ap XXX.
Processes

ID Code

Identification and control of documents and records

Creation, edit, review and approval of documents
(Example: Internal documents management)

Ap 20

Archive and retention of documents

Contract review
Procedures
SOP management

Ap 21

Document management

Ap 22

Short term archiving

Ap 23

Long term archiving

Document control

Ap 24

Contract review
Forms/Logs
Document control logbook

Ap 24

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14. QSE: Information Management

14.1 Policy

The Name of the laboratory has access to the data and information needed to
provide a service that meets the needs and requirements of internal and external
customers. The laboratory information system (LIS) (whether computerized or
paper-based) provides for the collection, processing, recording, storage, and
retrieval of data, and has documented procedures in place to ensure the
confidentiality of patient information and the security of the data during each
step of the process.
14.2 Information system - Security

If computerized, the information management system used in the laboratory is

managed by the informatics department. This department is in charge of
installing on each computer a backup and antivirus system and has procedures
in place to meet national and international requirements for data protection and
to restrict unauthorized access.
If paper-based, appropriate measures should be put in place to ensure that all
documents are protected from risk of damage by water, fire or animals such as
rats and mice. Procedures should be put in place to meet national and
international requirements for data protection and to restrict unauthorized
access.
14.3 Confidentiality

The personnel (temporary, permanent, student, etc.), whatever the duration of

their contract, will sign a confidentiality agreement.
The laboratory has a secure process for archiving and/or data disposal; refer to
chapter 13 Documents and Records.
14.4 Supporting documents

The laboratory should develop its own complete list of supporting documents.
The table below suggests processes, procedures and forms/logs. Some but not all
documents are provided as examples in appendices and referred to as Ap XXX.
Processes

ID Code

Information security and confidentiality

Selection of an information management system (see chapter 6
Purchasing and Inventory)
LIS down-time
Procedures
Transmission of results
Informatics system maintenance
Back up
LIS down-time
Retrieval of data (manual or computerized)

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Forms/Logs
LIS down-time log
Back up log

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15. Appendices
Appendix 1: SOP: Meetings management
Appendix 2: SOP: Safe manipulation
Appendix 3: Process: Equipment installation
Appendix 4: Process: Equipment repair
Appendix 5: SOP: Decontamination of laboratory equipment; Forms: Checklist for
decontamination, Certification for service
Appendix 6: SOP: Equipment decommission; Form: Laboratory equipment
disposal
Appendix 7: SOP: General sampling conditions
Appendix 8: SOP: Sample labelling; Form: Test request
Appendix 9: SOP: Sample rejection or acceptance
Appendix 10: SOP: Sample transport
Appendix 11: SOP: Results validation
Appendix 12: SOP: Critical results reporting
Appendix 13: SOP: Internal audit
Appendix 14: Form: Orientation checklist
Appendix 15: SOP: Internal training
Appendix 16: SOP: Competency assessment; Forms: Competency assessment
checklist, Competency assessment logbook
Appendix 17: SOP: Customer survey
Appendix 18: SOP: Customer complaint
Appendix 19: SOP: Nonconforming event management
Appendix 20: Process: Internal documents management
Appendix 21: SOP: SOP management
Appendix 22: SOP: Document management
Appendix 23: SOP: Short term archiving
Appendix 24: SOP: Document control; Form: Document control logbook

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